Regan Brown
If you're planning to enter a demolition derby, you'll need to ensure your vehicle is up to the challenge. One key consideration is the fuel tank – it needs to be securely mounted inside the car, and you'll need to think about the pressure required by the fuel pump to keep the car running. You can purchase a separate fuel cell with a hole for an in-tank pump, or you could borrow a high-pressure race car fuel pump. Either way, you'll want to ensure your fuel setup is safe and effective before you enter the arena.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity | 6 gallons |
| Fuel pump pressure | 60 psi |
| Fuel pump voltage | 12 volts |
| Fuel pump output | 12-15 psi |
| Fuel cell | Stainless steel with a hole for in-tank pump |
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What You'll Learn
Moving the fuel tank inside the car
Moving the fuel tank inside a car is an uncommon practice, but it may be necessary for a few reasons, such as servicing internal components or participating in a demolition derby. Here are some detailed steps and considerations for relocating the fuel tank inside a car:
Removing the Fuel Tank:
First, ensure you have the necessary tools and a safe workspace. Place an EPA/Underwriter's Laboratory-approved gas container below the car to catch the draining fuel. Remove the drain plug or locate the tank's drainpipe/filler hose. Use an appropriate adapter to connect an intake hose from an air or hand pump to the pipe, and place the discharge hose into the gas container. Extract all the fuel and seal any openings to prevent vapors from escaping.
Loosen the gas tank strap bolts, but not completely, so they still support the tank. Carefully lower the fuel tank with the help of another person or a low-profile floor jack. Remove the gas tank support straps, being careful not to kink or damage them. Finally, drag the tank sideways to remove it from under the car.
Mounting the Fuel Tank Inside:
When relocating the fuel tank inside the car, consider using an aftermarket aluminum gas tank, which can be installed between the frame rails. These tanks are fully baffled and compatible with EFI or carbureted applications. Ensure that the tank is securely mounted and won't shift or move during acceleration, deceleration, or impact.
Fuel Pump Considerations:
If the fuel pump was previously mounted inside the tank, you may need to relocate it as well. In a derby car, a standard 12-volt pump may not provide enough pressure, so consider borrowing a high-pressure race car fuel pump or creating a small auxiliary tank to run the factory pump.
Safety Precautions:
Working with fuel can be dangerous, so ensure proper ventilation and avoid any sources of ignition. Always wear protective gear, including gloves and eye protection. It is recommended to have a qualified mechanic or racing professional oversee the process to ensure safety and compliance with any applicable regulations.
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Required fuel pressure
Maintaining the required fuel pressure is essential for optimal engine performance in a derby car. Low fuel pressure can cause issues such as stalling, sluggish acceleration, and rough engine performance. To ensure the engine receives the right amount of fuel, the fuel pump must deliver it at the required pressure.
In a derby fuel tank setup, the fuel pump plays a critical role in achieving the required fuel pressure. The pump is responsible for transferring fuel from the tank to the engine, and insufficient pressure can lead to an inconsistent fuel supply. For example, a standard 12-volt fuel pump typically generates around 12 to 15 psi, which may not be sufficient for the engine's needs. In such cases, a more powerful fuel pump, such as one borrowed from a race car, might be necessary to achieve the required pressure.
The fuel injectors are another crucial component in maintaining the required fuel pressure. They spray fuel into the engine's combustion chamber in a fine mist, ensuring efficient combustion. However, damaged or leaking injectors can lead to low fuel pressure, wasting fuel and impacting engine performance. Regular cleaning and inspection of the injectors is essential to prevent such issues.
Fuel lines also play a role in maintaining fuel pressure. Over time, these lines can crack or wear out, leading to leaks and reduced fuel pressure. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect and replace fuel lines as necessary to maintain the required fuel pressure.
Additionally, it is important to consider the size of the fuel tank and the regulations of the derby event. Some events may have rules limiting the amount of fuel in the tank, such as a 3-gallon restriction. In such cases, a smaller tank might be preferred, but it is important to ensure that the fuel pickup device is compatible with the smaller tank and that the fuel pump can still provide the required pressure. Boat tanks are often mentioned as a suitable option for derby fuel tanks.
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$109.58
Fuel pump options
A 12-volt pump, for example, will only provide enough pressure to keep the car running for a few seconds. If you require more pressure, you may need to borrow or purchase a high-pressure race car fuel pump. These pumps can be expensive, so another option is to make a small dedicated tank to run the factory pump. This is what one person did when derbie-ing their 92 Taurus; they took the pump from the tank, made a small one-foot-squared tank, and put the pump in there.
If you are looking for a fuel tank with a hole for an in-tank pump, there are stainless steel options available on the market. However, it is important to note that these products often do not come with the pump included, so you would need to source the pump separately.
Ultimately, the fuel pump you choose will depend on your specific requirements and budget. It may be worth consulting with a mechanic or someone who has experience with derbie-ing fuel tanks to determine the best option for your needs.
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Fuel tank size
In a derby car, the fuel tank size can vary depending on the specific requirements and modifications made to the vehicle. Typically, a smaller fuel tank is used, as a larger tank may occupy valuable space and add unnecessary weight. A compact, lightweight fuel tank is often preferred to maximise manoeuvrability and efficiency.
The size of the fuel tank should be carefully considered in relation to the engine's fuel consumption rate. A common practice is to calculate the engine's fuel requirements for a specific duration, such as the expected length of the derby event or the average time between refuelling opportunities. This helps determine the minimum fuel capacity required.
For example, if the engine consumes fuel at a rate of 1 gallon per hour and the derby event is expected to last for 2 hours, a fuel tank capacity of at least 2 gallons would be necessary. It is often advisable to allow for some additional capacity to accommodate for unexpected delays or extended running times.
Additionally, the fuel tank size may be influenced by the type of fuel pump being used. In some cases, a high-pressure fuel pump may be required to deliver the necessary fuel pressure to the engine. These pumps can be expensive and may not be cost-effective for a derby car. As a result, some participants opt for a smaller, lower-pressure fuel pump that can be mounted inside the tank or inline, accepting the reduced running time in exchange for cost savings.
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Fuel tank cost
The cost of a fuel tank varies depending on the type of tank, its size, and whether it is being purchased new or second-hand. For example, a new, genuine Hyundai tank costs $900, whereas a new tank from Autozone costs $600. A new OEM or aftermarket tank could cost around $800, with some retailers offering second-hand tanks starting at $15 for a 6-gallon tank.
The cost of a fuel tank can also depend on the retailer's mark-up, which is typically between 33% and 50% for parts. Additionally, labour costs for installation can add to the overall expense, with shop labour rates averaging $100 per hour.
For those looking to save money, it may be worth considering sourcing a fuel tank from a junkyard or second-hand retailer. However, it is important to note that the condition of these tanks may vary, and they may require additional labour for installation.
When considering the cost of a fuel tank, it is also worth factoring in the price of any necessary fuel pump assemblies, which can range from $300 to $400.
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Frequently asked questions
The fuel tank needs to be moved inside the car and mounted. You will also need a fuel pump that can provide the required pressure.
A standard 12-volt pump will only provide enough pressure to run the car for a few seconds. A high-pressure fuel injection pump will provide the required pressure but is relatively expensive. An alternative is to make a small 1-foot-square external tank to run the factory pump.
The engine requires 60 psi of fuel pressure to run.
Yes, there are stainless steel fuel cells available with a hole for an in-tank pump.
